Apr 21, 2014

Civil Aeronautics Board executive director Carmelo Arcilla said in an interview last week that talks with Myanmar were up first, or from May 19 to 20. The move is set to result in the first direct flights between Philippines and Myanmar, often described as the region’s final frontier, and follows strengthened bilateral ties between both countries late last year.

Arcilla noted that the time was right for talks with Myanmar given the potential for increased tourism and business. Among local carriers, he said Cebu Pacific has expressed its interest to operate in Myanmar.

“It’s a very young emerging market and there are political reforms being implemented,” Arcilla said. “For a while, Myanmar was at the receiving end of economic sanctions but now, there is recognition and support coming from other Asean (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) members.”